Customer Reviews

The Rescue of River City

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Mr. Dix has written an exciting book full of timeless information. Particularly pertinent now, in the face of what is happening in Afghanistan, he brilliantly illustrates the effective use of indigenous forces inside a mostly hostile country. A country where most Americans would be unable to fit into. This is not the sort of book I usually read, but I was struck by the timeless, unconventional and utterly logical methods of warfare Mr. Dix used to bring about successful campaigns. Without pointing fingers or complaining about what went wrong with the Vietnam War, he merely states how he made his own campaigns successful. What is evident, between these lines lacking in self-pity, is a loss of innocence. For this brave, unique man, he was only doing a job, albeit proudly. A very exciting account, if somewhat understated. At times, his dry wit shines through and makes me smile. Thank you, Mr. Dix, for being the man you are. For setting an example for other people. For saving lives. For any young man desirous of becoming a member of our very honored Special Forces - any branch - this should be required reading. History repeats itself. Let's learn from it.

This is truly a fascinating account of what one man went through during the war. His heroics are impressive and almost unbelievable. I am amazed that he survived. He deserved the medal for what he did. This book should be read by anyone who is interested in war and what heroes are made of.

Looking for a true tale of valor and self-sacrifice ? This is the book for you. Drew Dix earned the Medal of Honor for his valor. Happily, Dix survived and is doing well. He is thinking about writing another book. I hope he does. Anyone interested in other stories of living Medal of Honor recipients might want to read Medal of Honor by Peter Collier.

When I visited Pueblo, Colorado this last summer, I stopped by the Medal of Honor Memorial. The citation is there recounting how Mr. Dix earned the Medal of Honor. This book is the detailed version of the citation. Reading this book is like having Mr Dix in the same room telling me the story. I've loaned it out to several people and there is no one that can put it down. This also provides a small glimpse into the Viet Nam War and how it was fought. PBS had a special on the 4 men from Pueblo and their stories of how they earned the Medal of Honor. It is called "Beyond the Medal of Honor". What was great about the special is that Mr. Dix and other characters from the book each told something about the "Rescue of River City".

Drew Dix writes about his heroic accomplishments in an understated, yet gripping manner. He gives full credit to the soldiers who fought alongside him throughout the three harrowing days of Tet 1968 when he earned the Medal of Honor. His unassuming, almost casual comments about the action, combined with details that bring the combat alive, lead the reader through the streets of River City and into the heat of the battle. I recommend this book to anyone who wants an inside look into the way a true hero thinks and acts when he places mission and the welfare of others ahead of his own safety and self-preservation.

Reviewer: William B. Townsend (Tarboro, NC).

My good friend, NAGO, is mentioned in the book 55 times during the 56 hour time span. He has nothing but awe for Drew Dix, and Drew asked me to read the following to NAGO at his combination birthday party with my daughter, Dixie.

"A soldier's life is based on honor, integrity, loyalty and bravery and would not be totally complete if all of these qualities were not experienced. Mine is truly complete, because of my service and experiences with my friend and fellow warrior, NAGO." Thank you for your service and thank you for watching my back!

He also signed his letter to me as below.

"Drew Dix

Awarded The Congressional Medal OF Honor

On January 16, 1969 For Conspicuous Gallantry

And Intrepidity In Action At The Risk Of His Life

Above And Beyond The Call Of Duty In Which

"NAGO" Was A Big Part"

Another words, Drew Dix is not just a hero, but one who unselfishly gives credit to those who were with him at the time. An individual mentioned to me that after reading the book, that it was hard for him to believe that it actually happened. I stated that no, that wasn't my problem, but that I thought it difficult to believe that he wasn't hit once the entire time.

Buy the book. You won't be sorry.

This book reads like one of those all star western movies where Wyatt Earp/Doc Holiday or Davy Crockett/Jim Bowie team up to take on the bad guys. In this case the real life heroes are Vietnam special operations Green Berets and SEALs. During the Tet Offensive Drew Dix led from the front and rescued an American civilian nurse, a Vietnamesse offical's family, a group of allied civilians and captured up to 20 Viet Cong as well as a high ranking VC officer. When you read this book you will know why there is a statue in Pueblo, Co. of this modern day hero.

This is a great book, from a local hometown hero. I would reccomend this book to anyone who has an interest in Vietnam.

If you are looking for the true story of a great American look no further than "The Rescue of River City". The retelling of the events that led to Drew Dix receiving the Congressional Medal of Honor read like a true-life action movie. The fact that Dix repeatedly risked his life to save strangers and friends and to serve his country is genuinely awe inspiring. Also fascinating is the line of work that Dix participated in with the CIA prior to the Tet offensive.

I have had the honor to meet Mr. Dix on a number of occasions, and his continued commitment to our nation and its veterans is as impressive as the story of how he earned his Congressional Medal of Honor. Between Mr. Dix's commitment to reducing suicide in the armed forces and his support for of the Center for American Values, he continues to be an inspiration.

I recommend that anyone who is interested in what defines a hero to pick up this book and I guarantee that you will have a hard time putting it down!

While reading this compelling encounter of the liberation of Chau Doc by CMH winner Drew Dix and his band of heroes, I was taken in by the author's ability to pull the reader into the action. I could picture the scenes vividly and felt anxiety at times when the action would take a turn for the worse. I still can't believe that Dix is alive to write this account. I am proud to share my country's military heritage with such soldiers as Dix's team. Anyone who is the least bit interested in the machinations of the Vietnam War should read this book.

LTC Kenneth F. Wright

MSC USAR (RET)